careful inspection of the two Japanese models who have posed for the illustrations in this book. The smaller of the two models weighs but one hundred and twenty pounds, yet he is a giant in miniature. His strength excels that of an American athlete of one hundred and seventy-five pounds. This the author is able to state after witnessing actual tests. The secret of such surprising strength is one that is easily mastered by him who will give time and resolution to its acquirement.
There is no need for any man, woman, or child who possesses ordinary health to become a weakling. In Japan weakness or long illnesses are considered to be the misfortunes of only the very aged. An eminent American authority on physical training has declared that "weakness is a crime." The Japanese look upon lack of strength as being a freak or an eccentricity.
In taking up this exhilarating, life-giving work there is one danger against which the reader must be warned. Americans are impetuous, impatient. Some will want to master the whole science in a week. In Japan the full course in jiu-jitsu requires four years' time.
